iOS 12.2 makes audio messages sound way better

Among the changes hidden in the new iOS 12.2 beta is improved audio quality for audio messages sent using the Messages app.

The switch involves transitioning over from the previous 8000 Hz .AMR file format to .24000 Hz .CAF files. What this means from a listening perspective is that audio messages now sound clearer and louder. Check out this direct comparison.

The comparison was shared by Twitter user Frederik Riedel. “What a difference,” Riedel writes in his tweet, alongside the direct comparison.

Remember: This feature is currently only available to those using the latest iOS 12.2 beta. Beta five dropped earlier this week. Alongside the audio fix, it included assorted small bug fixes. Previous iOS 12.2 beta have introduced features such as Apple News for Canada, display mirroring button in Control Center, and new Animoji characters for giraffe, shark, owl and boar.

It’s likely that iOS 12.2 will get its public release shortly after Apple’s upcoming March 25 event. This timing is likely so that it can include Apple’s new Apple News subscription service.